Denver residents will have the opportunity to vote on the city's biggest sales tax increase ever this November.

In November, the residents of Denver will have the opportunity to vote on a proposed 0.5% tax hike, which would be the largest dedicated sales tax in the city's history. The City Council voted 9-4 to refer this measure to the ballot, with Councilman Darrell Watson expressing his belief that "now is the time to act."

If passed by voters, this tax would generate an estimated $100 million annually, which would be primarily invested in affordable housing programs. Mayor Mike Johnston and supporters on the council have suggested using the funds for initiatives such as rental assistance, down payment assistance, and even becoming an equity investor in new developments to ensure affordable housing options for lower-income residents.

The City Council made some last-minute amendments to the measure on Monday, including clarifying their role in reviewing and approving the spending plan and establishing a sunset date for the tax in 2064. Despite concerns about the lack of public input and the potential burden on low-income families, the majority of the council voted in favor of sending the measure to the ballot.

The proposed tax increase would be in addition to the city's existing 8.81% sales tax rate and would appear on the ballot alongside another sales tax increase to support Denver Health, the city's safety net hospital. Some council members, like Chris Hinds, acknowledge that having stable housing is a social determinant of public health, but others, like Kevin Flynn, argue against raising the cost of living in Denver.

Mayor Johnston has praised the council sponsors for their work in passing amendments and believes that the proposed tax will help bring 45,000 units of affordable housing to Denver and make the city a place where people of all income levels can thrive. He plans to focus on these benefits when discussing the measure with voters leading up to the November 5th vote.

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